Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
jeudi 5 janvier 2017
If Finding a Pet Sitter Is Holding You Back From Traveling, This Is the Solution
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Lisette Mejia
If you've wanted to travel the world and been held back by either not knowing what to do with your pet while you're gone or not having the funds to quite make the trip work, TrustedHousesitters has answers for everyone. Through an online network, the company matches houses and sitters so pet owners can go on vacation knowing their furry friends are being taken care of and travelers can have a place to stay free of charge. I sat down with CEO and Founder Andy Peck to learn more about how TrustedHousesitters works - because it almost sounds too good to be true, right? Wrong!
First, the basics. There are two ways to use TrustedHousesitters: as a sitter and as a pet owner. No matter which you are, you pay a $99 membership fee that lasts you for a year - and that is the last time you pay anything. If you join as a pet owner, you can list your house and your pet on the site for dates you want to leave town and put out a call for someone to come stay at your house and care for your animal. You won't pay them any money, but you will unofficially pay them by giving them a place to stay. If you join as a sitter, you can search through listings all over the world and find houses and animals that need you to come take care of them.
Peck and his cofounder Rachel Martin started TrustedHousesitters back in 2010 when they stumbled upon house-sitting in Spain and realized a house-sitting company with a pet-watching component could fill a large gap in the travel market. What started as a small UK-based business has now grown worldwide, with its largest markets being in Europe and Australasia. Peck said, however, that the US seems to be the fastest-growing area, customer-wise.
Image Source: Kayla Coleman Photography
According to the ASPCA, there are over 140 million cats and dogs owned in the US, so it comes as no surprise to me that needing pet sitters is a large business. When Peck and Martin set out to start TrustedHousesitters, they took a look at all the statistics related to pet ownership and travel and found that about 90 percent of people struggle to put their pets in kennels to travel because they just don't feel comfortable with it or can't afford it. "Pets are happier with their own routine, according to the vets we spoke with," Peck said. "They can adapt to a new carer better than to a new environment," which is why it made more sense to provide a service where you could have someone come to your home and care for your pet rather than sending him somewhere.
"We love [TrustedHousesitters] because it helps people," Peck said. "It gives pet owners peace of mind" that their animal is being taken care of by a fellow animal-lover who cares more about the animals than making money. It also provides an amazing travel experience for the house-sitter, because it immerses them in a new community rather than positioning them as a tourist. Peck said that to his knowledge, a common occurrence is for a house-sitter to come to the house before the pet owners leave to spend an evening with them getting to know them, the pets, the house, and the area, before the pet owners set out on vacation. This way the sitter is comfortable in the environment. "This provides really authentic experiences," Peck said.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Lisette Mejia
By accepting a role as a sitter, though, you're accepting a large responsibility. It's important to note that while you're getting a free place to stay for however long the sit is, that family's pet is under your care. Your TrustedHousesitters membership provides you with 24/7 access to a veterinarian, should you need one, and your membership essentially is your contract stating that you will take action on any ailments the pet under your care experiences. Basically, TrustedHousitters and the homeowner are expecting you to care for the animal as if it were your own.
If you're looking for your next trip, you love animals, and you're mildly interested, let me push you over the edge into convinced: some of these house-sits are phenomenal. You could end up on a tropical beach with a cute pup, a castle in the countryside with two sweet kitties, or a cabin in the woods with a whole crew of furry friends. Peck showed me a listing that's one of his favorites, and it's an actual castle. And who knows, you might end up house-sitting for a celebrity. "We might have a famous person or two on the site, but I obviously can't say who," Peck said. "You wouldn't find out until you were well into the selection process anyways, so you can't exactly search for them."
TrustedHousesitters is also a way for you to see other parts of your own city. I could easily spend a week house-sitting for someone on the other side of Manhattan to get a feel for how the other half lives. Peck actually recommended doing just that. "[TrustedHousesitters] helps you find the not-obvious places." He also recommends using the site if you are retired or have a job that allows you to work remotely. "If you can work remotely, why not work from a beach somewhere?" he asked, and I couldn't agree more.
To get started, go to TrustedHousesitters and get all signed up to find the list of house-sits available. Try it out as either a sitter or an owner, and we think you'll find out what more than 63,000 other community members worldwide already have: TrustedHousesitters is the answer to your traveling woes.
This 11-Year-Old Sent the Sassiest Breakup Text EVER
Oh, sixth grade . . . a year so filled with drama and puppy love that it's a wonder anyone survives it at all. But most of us experienced it without cell phones and social networks, which is so not the case for kids today! Eleven-year-olds often carry smartphones, have Instagram accounts, and write blogs these days, which leads to plenty of full-blown teenage drama at an early age.
A perfect example of this is a set of texts that went viral, supposedly featuring a conversation between two sixth graders who were "dating." When 17-year-old Madi Nickens tweeted this "official breakup" conversation between her 11-year-old sister and a boy named Joey, the Internet went crazy over the little girl's supreme sass level. Here's how it all went down.
Bates Motel's Final Season Has a Premiere Date! Here's What You Need to Know
The final season of Bates Motel is shaping up to be its most explosive yet. Over the course of four seasons, we've seen Norman blossom from a weird young boy to a serious creep, and he's finally graduated to full-on psychopath. Now that there is an official premiere date, take a look at the bushel of details we have about what to expect - including Rihanna! Here's the rundown.
20 Cheap and Easy Slow-Cooker Recipes You Need in Your Life
Utilizing your slow cooker is one of the easiest ways to not only cook more at home, but also to stick to your budget. You can throw just about anything - from pantry staples to affordable cuts of meat - into a slow cooker and let it simmer for hours, and you'll get a hearty, flavorful meal that will leave you with plenty of leftovers. With these 20 cheap and easy slow-cooker recipes on hand, you'll be able to whip up comfort foods that are easy on your wallet and busy schedule.
There's a New Chucky Movie Coming Out, in Case You Wanted Some Nightmares
Oh, what's that? You wanted to see a seventh Child's Play film that puts Chucky on a murderous rampage? Well, you're in luck! Universal has announced Cult of Chucky, the latest film in the iconic creepy doll franchise that began 30 years ago. While the teaser doesn't show any new footage, we do know the film will take place in an insane asylum and will be released on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD before Halloween. We really can't wait . . . or maybe we can.
Carrie Fisher's Devoted Fans Start a Petition to Make Leia an Official Disney Princess
Ever since Carrie Fisher's untimely, tragic passing on Dec. 27 from a heart attack, people have been memorializing the 60-year-old actress with everything from heartfelt essays to works of art. Now, some loyal fans are trying to give Fisher's most iconic character, Star Wars' Princess Leia, a very special honor: making Leia an official Disney princess. A Change.org petition was started online by a fan named Cody Christensen to try to get Disney, which bought Lucasfilm for $4 billion in 2012, to give Leia her due. "After the tragic [loss] of Carrie Fisher, we feel that it is only fitting for Disney to do away with the rule that an official Disney princess must be animated," the petition wrote to Disney CEO Bob Iger. "This would be a wonderful way to remember Carrie and a welcoming to one of Disney's new properties that is beloved by millions."
Christensen is a father to five daughters, and told GeekExchange that Princess Leia is exactly the kind of female character that young women need to look up to. "We are big fans of the current Princess line-up, but I think that Leia is a really strong, positive, awesome role model for my girls," he said. At the moment, the lineup of princesses includes characters like Belle, Cinderella, Snow White, Brave's Merida, and The Princess and the Frog's Tiana. The only characters who aren't apart of the official Disney Princess franchise - which began in 2000 - are Anna, Elsa from Frozen, and Moana. As of Thursday afternoon the petition had over 35,000 signatures, but Iger and the rest of the Mouse House have yet to respond.
The 1 Piece of Advice Manny MUA Has For Aspiring Beauty Vloggers
There are two major things about the following statement: Manny MUA (who you might know as @MannyMUA733) is the newest ambassador for Maybelline New York!
Yes, you probably guessed the first important part right away - Manny Gutierrez is the first-ever male ambassador for the makeup brand. But aside from that, the Mexican-American YouTube and Instagram star is joining a select group of Latinos, including Salvadorian supermodel Christy Turlington and Brazilian beauty Adriana Lima, as one of Maybelline's faces.
Manny and fellow YouTuber Shayla Mitchell (@MakeupShayla) will be showcasing their makeup skills on a series of commercials set to promote one of the drugstore brand's classic products, The Colossal Big Shot Mascara. Ahead of the campaign's launch, we met with Manny in New York City to chat about what it means to be working with Maybelline. He spilled, giving serious advice on how you too can kick-start a career as a makeup vlogger and singing praises about his beauty role model. Keep scrolling for his must-read quotes.
- Additional reporting by Lauren Levinson
These Are the 5 Best At-Home Hair Removal Solutions For Sensitive Skin
As a chronic eczema sufferer with ultra-sensitive skin, shaving has been the bane of my existence (or at least my personal care routine) since my mom gifted me my first razor in sixth grade. Yes, I remember some specifics - it was pink, and I loved it. That was until I realized it was aggravating my highly sensitive skin every time it touched my armpits or legs. Nothing kills the excitement of a coming-of-age marker quite like breaking out in red bumps and itchy patches.
Since then, I've been on a quest to find a hair removal solution that work and won't require a hefty budget or standing appointment at a salon. I've suffered through depilatory cream chemical burns, irritating shaving creams, and dry shaves - all so that you don't have to.
Thankfully for all of us, my at-home hair removal sagas weren't in vain. In fact, I've discovered five different options for those of us with sensitive (read: impossible) skin. Keep reading for some real-talk on how to stop the shaving backlash once and for all.
Rupert Grint Got a Shout-Out in the Half-Blood Prince Novel - and You Probably Missed It
Image Source: Everett Collection
By the time the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince novel was released, the fourth movie (Goblet of Fire) was on the verge of coming out. This meant that Rupert Grint was already an established member of our favorite magical trio as Ron Weasley, loved perhaps most especially for his gratuitous usage of "bloody hell" to express his surprise, fear, excitement, and pretty much any other emotion.
In Half-Blood Prince, the pompous (but arguably endearing) character of Professor Slughorn is introduced, whose talent for choosing gifted students to include among his exclusive ranks rivals his penchant for potions.
So, the fact that Slughorn calls Ron the wrong name isn't all that surprising considering this mistake is made in line with the professor's disregard of students who don't fit his standards of "promising" wizards. Ron (to Slughorn) is forgettable.
What is notable is the small shout-out to actor Grint when Slughorn slips up upon discussing Ron's incident of accidentally drinking poison instead of a tonic for someone who'd ingested the love potion Amortentia. In the 2005 Bloomsbury edition of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince on page 454, J.K. Rowling gives Grint a subtle nod in the novel by having Slughorn call Ron by the name of Rupert on accident. The tiny detail is easy to miss, but the fact that Rowling snuck it in certainly makes us smile. See the passage ahead for the mention of "Rupert" instead of "Ron."
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Hilary White
Where Are Chokers Going For 2017?
ASOS started selling velvet chokers for men, Matt Lauer modeled one on the Today show, and now everyone has an opinion on whether this look is cool or just strange on guys. If we bring it back to fashion and the runway, however, there's no denying the choker was a focal accessory, popping up in the Spring 2017 collections of Louis Vuitton and Gucci at menswear fashion week. Leather, mixed metals, and even bandana versions made appearances on the catwalk.
It should not be a surprise that chokers have drifted over to the men, given that they were the It accessories for ladies this past year. Stars from Kendall Jenner to Rihanna wore the '90s look with their outfits, and it took over street style to the point of near exhaustion. This made us question whether everyone was finally ready to retire the choker trend in the New Year. Would it still be as popular? It seems ASOS (and maybe Lauer) has solved a small piece of the puzzle: the choker is still in but, perhaps, more so for the guys.
Though we don't know if our SOs will start copying the look anytime soon, we do know that guys have always rocked chokers. Brad Pitt wore a beaded one to the Emmy Awards in 2000, while your favorite O.C. cutie Ben McKenzie donned one on the show. So men wearing chokers in 2017? It's really no big deal. If you like it, wear it. The accessory isn't bound to any gender, and it's a trend repeating itself for both ladies and men.
If you need further proof, read on to see some runway images and check out guys who have worn chokers in the past. Then, maybe shop one for the man in your life.
Watch These Dogs Devour Food Using Human Hands - and Prepare to Laugh Your Ass Off
There's no denying that dogs have a special way of stealing the hearts of internet users. Whether they're riding motorcycles like badasses, throwing little temper tantrums, or unsuccessfully attempting to catch food in their mouths, dogs always manage to look darn adorable 24/7. But nothing reconfirms our canine love (or makes us chuckle) quite like videos of pups eating an entire plate of grub with a little help from some human hands.
This entertaining video trend stars dogs seated at a table and wearing clothes while their paws are swapped for the hands of a human to help them devour a plateful of food. The results are wildly hilarious, so we gathered some of the funniest ones for when you just need a laugh. We bet you can't watch half of the videos ahead without cracking a smile!
Detox Naturally With These 3 Winter Ingredients
These seasonal ingredients not only taste good, but they also have natural detoxing properties. Learn which Winter ingredients can help cleanse the body and how to incorporate them into your next meal.
Beets
For those times when my body feels heavy or weighed down, my doctor always recommends beets. Their fiber increases the production of antioxidant enzymes in the liver, helping the body eliminate bile and other toxic substances. Sometimes simple is best, like this recipe for roasted beets.
Leafy Greens
Dark, leafy greens like spinach, kale, and chicory are full of essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, but it's the chlorophyll levels that help the body detox and alkalize. To take in all the cleansing properties of leafy greens, it's best to enjoy them raw; try POPSUGAR Food's recipe for a shredded kale and brussels sprouts salad.
Cabbage
Believed by many to have good-luck properties, cabbage (and other cruciferous vegetables) promotes healthy liver function, stimulating the body's natural detoxification process. This Winter, we can't stop eating the rainbow cabbage salad with tahini-lemon dressing.
12 Baby Products You Will Never Actually Need
It's no secret that babies come with a lot of stuff. Some of it's necessary (hello, diapers), some of it's handy (we're looking at you, eight-pack of pacifiers, and don't think we forgot about you, infant swing), but a lot of it is a downright waste of money. Whether manufacturers slapped the word "baby" in front of a product you probably already own or they made up a whole new device you never realized you didn't need, we've rounded up 12 items you - and your baby - can certainly do without.
Detox Naturally With These 3 Winter Ingredients
These seasonal ingredients not only taste good, but they also have natural detoxing properties. Learn which Winter ingredients can help cleanse the body and how to incorporate them into your next meal.
Beets
For those times when my body feels heavy or weighed down, my doctor always recommends beets. Their fiber increases the production of antioxidant enzymes in the liver, helping the body eliminate bile and other toxic substances. Sometimes simple is best, like this recipe for roasted beets.
Leafy Greens
Dark, leafy greens like spinach, kale, and chicory are full of essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, but it's the chlorophyll levels that help the body detox and alkalize. To take in all the cleansing properties of leafy greens, it's best to enjoy them raw; try POPSUGAR Food's recipe for a shredded kale and brussels sprouts salad.
Cabbage
Believed by many to have good-luck properties, cabbage (and other cruciferous vegetables) promotes healthy liver function, stimulating the body's natural detoxification process. This Winter, we can't stop eating the rainbow cabbage salad with tahini-lemon dressing.
Who Do You See in This Picture? The Answer Is Important to Your Vision
You might not want to know the answer to the test, but you should take it anyway. Play the video, and an image will appear - you'll see either Marilyn Monroe or Albert Einstein. We won't tell you what each answer means till the end, so as not to influence what you see.
The video comes to us from AsapSCIENCE, which creates popular YouTube science videos. What's going on? The video uses a hybrid image that combines pictures of the two icons and mutes or enhances certain details from each face. The test measures how well you're able to focus and pick up on details like contrast and spatial frequency.
So, for the answer: If you're at a normal viewing distance and get Albert Einstein, you have pretty decent vision. But if you see Marilyn Monroe, you should talk to your doctor about glasses or contacts.
This might be better than the whole dress debate, since it actually means something to your life. How do you compare to everyone else? Vote in the poll to find out!
New Lawsuit Alleges Coca-Cola Downplayed the Health Risks of Soda
Any soda drinker and sugar lover can agree that the sugar addiction is real, and it is a very hard habit to break, but according to a new lawsuit, the health risks are worse than what we've been told. On Jan. 4, the Coca-Cola Company and the American Beverage Association were sued for reportedly downplaying the relationship between the sugar-filled beverages and obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
The nonprofit Praxis Project filed the suit in the federal court in California, saying that Coca-Cola and the ABA tried to deceive the public into thinking that lack of exercise is the cause of these health issues, not soda consumption. Praxis also believes that the two defendants tried to spread the notion that "all calories are the same, when science indicates that sugar drinks play a distinct role in the obesity epidemic."
"The notion that Coke's products can be part of a healthy diet is imprinted on the minds of millions if not billions of people, and requires corrective action," Maia Kats, litigation director of the Center for Science in the Public Interest, which helped file the lawsuit, said.
A spokesperson from Coca-Cola called the lawsuit "legally and factually meritless," while the ABA has noted the claims as "unfounded."
It's important to point out that according to Reuters, a 16-ounce bottle of Coke has 12 teaspoons of added sugar, and while the American Heart Association recommends no more than nine teaspoons a day for men, and six for women, Coca-Cola is not alone. A 15.2-ounce bottle of Minute Maid Cranberry Grape Juice has 13 teaspoons, and a 20-ounce bottle of Vitaminwater has eight.
Read the full complaint against the Coca-Cola Company and the ABA here.
New Lawsuit Alleges Coca-Cola Downplayed the Health Risks of Soda
Any soda drinker and sugar lover can agree that the sugar addiction is real, and it is a very hard habit to break, but according to a new lawsuit, the health risks are worse than what we've been told. On Jan. 4, the Coca-Cola Company and the American Beverage Association were sued for reportedly downplaying the relationship between the sugar-filled beverages and obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
The nonprofit Praxis Project filed the suit in the federal court in California, saying that Coca-Cola and the ABA tried to deceive the public into thinking that lack of exercise is the cause of these health issues, not soda consumption. Praxis also believes that the two defendants tried to spread the notion that "all calories are the same, when science indicates that sugar drinks play a distinct role in the obesity epidemic."
"The notion that Coke's products can be part of a healthy diet is imprinted on the minds of millions if not billions of people, and requires corrective action," Maia Kats, litigation director of the Center for Science in the Public Interest, which helped file the lawsuit, said.
A spokesperson from Coca-Cola called the lawsuit "legally and factually meritless," while the ABA has noted the claims as "unfounded."
It's important to point out that according to Reuters, a 16-ounce bottle of Coke has 12 teaspoons of added sugar, and while the American Heart Association recommends no more than nine teaspoons a day for men, and six for women, Coca-Cola is not alone. A 15.2-ounce bottle of Minute Maid Cranberry Grape Juice has 13 teaspoons, and a 20-ounce bottle of Vitaminwater has eight.
Read the full complaint against the Coca-Cola Company and the ABA here.
Woman Sums Up Motherhood in Just 34 Hilarious Seconds
"They don't ever go away. They want everything you have."
In just 34 seconds, Ashley Gardner, mother of quadruplet girls, perfectly sums up the essence of motherhood while hiding from her kids inside a pantry. Chewing on a Twizzler, Ashley explains that her husband was out shoveling the driveway, and that she desperately needed a treat to get through the rest of her night (to the sound of whining children in the background). "So I'm hiding in the pantry, eating a treat," she says. "Is that wrong?"
As she continues to enjoy her treat, she points the camera down to the floor, where a small child's face appears through the crack under the door. "She's always there," Ashley says, as her daughter quickly responds with a gleeful "Hi!"
Yup, that sounds about right.
If Cinderella Matched Her Shoes to Her Nails, It Would Look Like This
There's something about having long, painted nails (usually with the help of acrylics) that makes beauty lovers feel like royalty. Combined with an iridescent finish and clear base, these glassy acrylic nails are the newest way for makeup mavens to give off dreamy regal vibes.
The gorgeous digits are hypnotizing to look at and reminiscent of Cinderella's glass slippers. They're also easy to ask for at the salon with the help of some acrylic tips and iridescent nail powder ($8).
Read on to see the spellbinding nails for yourself.
The 70 Most Glamorous Gowns to Ever Hit the Golden Globes Red Carpet
It was almost impossible not to call every 2016 Golden Globes dress beyond glamorous. But gearing up to the 2017 awards, you deserve to reminisce about the best of the best. To get you in the mood for what's to come, we're prepping for the night with a look back at the most memorable Globes designs.
We've combed the fashion archives for the most unforgettable red carpet looks, and we promise you won't be disappointed with our walk down memory lane. Is your favorite celebrity on it? Don't forget to check back on Jan. 8 - we'll be covering every angle of the red carpet arrivals and the late-night afterparties.
Princess Leia Has 2 Major Scenes in Star Wars: Episode VIII and IX
The unexpected death of Carrie Fisher has left Star Wars fans with heavy hearts and the production crew scrambling to figure out what to do next - in the midst of their own grief. Fisher had long played the iconic Princess Leia, and her character was set to appear in both of the upcoming Star Wars installments. While she would have a smaller part in 2017's Episode VIII (which she already shot), director Colin Trevorrow hinted that she would have a large part in 2019's Episode IX. On Jan. 5, The Hollywood Reporter reported that "at least two key scenes are planned for Episode VIII and Episode IX: a Leia reunion with Luke Skywalker and a confrontation with Kylo Ren."
A meeting has been set for the week of Jan. 9 between the studio and the filmmakers to discuss how to move forward. While CGI could be a possibility, it's a big gamble; not everyone loved the way the visual effects team re-created General Tarkin (Peter Cushing) for Rogue One. Alternatively, they could rewrite her part in Episode IX and/or tweak her scene in Episode VIII.
We'll keep you updated as information is released.
Ontario nursing students get unlimited tries for licencing exam
Applicants to become a nurse in Ontario no longer have to worry about passing the provincial licensing exam in three tries.
Ontario nursing students get unlimited tries for licencing exam
Applicants to become a nurse in Ontario no longer have to worry about passing the provincial licensing exam in three tries.
If Disney Princesses Were Star Wars Characters, This Is How Awesome They'd Look
Another illustrator is setting the bar high for creating an impressive set of Disney princesses as Star Wars characters. While other wonderful mashups like this already exist, these are extremely vivid and ethereal. Created by illustrator Ralph Sevelius and posted on DeviantArt, your favorite Star Wars characters are replaced by various princesses like Sith Snow White and Jedi Ariel. Look ahead to see the marvelous illustrations and hope that someday, these become real animations.
Gina Rodriguez Just Kicked Off Award Season in 1 Chic Little Black Dress
Jane the Virgin actress Gina Rodriguez was literally all smiles at the Moët Moment Film Festival in Los Angeles on Jan. 4. Considering she's nominated for her third consecutive Golden Globe Award for her role as Jane on the hit CW show - she won back in 2015 and delivered one memorable, motivational speech - we can't blame her.
Gina opted for a high-neck LBD with dainty floral cutouts and ruffle detailing at the shoulders for the movie-filled night, showing off a major result of her obsession with boxing: seriously toned legs. She paired the striking number simply with black pumps, her signature sleek hairstyle, and super natural makeup, making us excited to see what she'll be wearing to the ceremony on Sunday, Jan. 8. Keep scrolling to see more pictures of a gleeful Gina on the red carpet before you admire her fierce Hollywood style evolution.
In Just 4 Tweets, This Dad Explains Why It's So Wrong to Complain About Babies on Planes
Traveling in general can be an absolute nightmare, but traveling with children makes things exceptionally more difficult for parents. In just four simple tweets, one dad explained why it's so wrong to complain about babies who cry on flights, and whether you're a parent or not, you're going to agree.
After reading a post online about someone being asked to control their kid on a plane, Elon James White, founder of This Week in Blackness, was fired up and asked an honest question on Twitter: "What exactly are parents expected to do?"
Just read a post of someone yelling at people w/ kids to keep their kids from crying on planes. What exactly are parents expected to do?
- Elon James White (@elonjames) January 2, 2017
As a parent, I can't even explain to you the precautions we take to try to make sure our kid doesn't cry on a plane. But it ain't up to us.
- Elon James White (@elonjames) January 2, 2017
"I didn't have kids so I shouldn't have to listen to yours scream."
You should fly a private jet then. I deal w/ shit I hate all the time.- Elon James White (@elonjames) January 2, 2017
It's just amazing how shitty people can react to a kid and their parents. As if the parents are so ecstatic that the kid is screaming...
- Elon James White (@elonjames) January 2, 2017
White brings up a very important point, that whether you're traveling with children or not, one thing remains the same: everyone wants a quiet flight. As much as we'd like to think we're all pure, kind souls who have never given a dirty look or rolled our eyes, we need to all be a little more respectful to parents traveling with children - especially screaming children - because they're doing the best they can.
Of every passenger on a flight, not one person wants a baby to stop crying more than the parents of that child, and complaining about it can be even more disruptive than the crying baby. Since this is such a relatable topic for both parents and travelers, White's tweets are making many people reconsider the way they act on flights.
As a non-parent, this makes me think about the situation differently. Definitely going to work on my reaction (i.e not bitching about it). https://t.co/URcjJlvTjr
- Calla (@heyitscalla) January 2, 2017
@elonjames thank you for these tweets. It's an awful, helpless feeling parenting on a plane & snide remarks from others only make it worse
- Marissa M. 📎 (@missymoo316) January 5, 2017
@elonjames And during the holidays? Dude. People with babies on planes aren't doing it FOR FUNSIES.
- Sarah Tuttle (@niais) January 2, 2017
@elonjames I always think that's such a weird complaint. Like do they think parents enjoy crying kids?
- s.e. smith (@realsesmith) January 2, 2017
@elonjames I've seen far more "adults" act like jerks on planes than heard babies cry/seen kids misbehave. I'll take babies/kids any day!
- J Davis (@another_davis) January 2, 2017
Watch the Trailer for The Ring's New Sequel at Your Own Peril
The Ring scared the stuffing out of America when it was released in 2002, and 15 years later (and 12 years after the first sequel), a new film is being released. Rings stars a bunch of people you know from TV: Aimee Teegarden (Friday Night Lights), Johnny Galecki (The Big Bang Theory), Zach Roerig (The Vampire Diaries), Laura Wiggins (The Tomorrow People), and Lizzie Brocheré (American Horror Story: Asylum). The trailer itself doesn't give a ton away about the plot, but guess what? A video is still killing people. The new trailer is above, and the first teaser (from last year) is below. Watch at your own risk; Rings hits theaters on Feb. 3!
This New Law Grants You Free Booze With Your Blowout
It's official: California-based fans of both champagne and flawless salon blowouts can now combine those two passions. As of Jan. 1, AB1322, also known as the "Drybar bill," is now law. This permits beauty salons to serve complimentary beer or wine (sparkling included!) to its clients, no liquor license needed.
The "Drybar bill" was inspired by the cult-favorite salon chain of the same name, which has been providing free booze to customers since the brand launched in 2010. If you've been lucky enough to be pampered by a stylist while getting your drink on, then you know what a luxurious experience it is and why it should be available nationwide.
The only downside is that this new law is sure to make booking an appointment at your favorite blowout bar a bit more challenging. So, Californians, be prepared to schedule your styling sesh several weeks in advance!
The Hollywood Sign Prank Spawned 1 of the Year's Best New Memes
On New Year's Day, residents of Los Angeles woke up to realize that the iconic Hollywood sign had been changed overnight to read "Hollyweed." While the year is still young, so to speak, the genius stunt has already been deemed one of 2017's standout moments. Days later, the internet ran with it and turned it into a meme, as the internet often does. By joking that the Hollywood sign has been changed yet another time, people are editing the sign to read various other preposterous things. Look ahead for some of our favorites so far.
There's No Doubt These Are the Best Dressed Bridesmaids of the Year
Last year, we saw an abundance of unique wedding dress trends. Some brides brought a whole wardrobe full of gowns to wear throughout their special weekend. But not to be forgotten were the bridesmaids. It seems like lately, women about to tie the knot are just as devoted to dressing their gang of girls.
From silk slips to bright floral maxis, sequined skirts, and even jet-black gowns, 2016 gave way to some very chic bridesmaids outfits. You might consider some of the ideas below over the top, but we think they're bold and full of personality. Read on for ways to make your ladies in waiting feel like the stars of the show. You're all about to walk down the aisle, after all.
The Right Way to Scramble Eggs
Scrambled eggs are something everyone knows how to cook, right? It's one of the first things I remember making. However, it wasn't until culinary school that I learned of a far superior way of whisking and scrambling the eggs - and get this, it's so easy. All you need to begin are eggs, a bowl, a fork, a nonstick pan, ghee, and a rubber spatula. Now let's get cracking.
Joan Smalls Is Showing Lots of Skin and a Sexy Tattoo on the Cover of V Magazine
We needed a few minutes to compose ourselves after seeing badass Puerto Rican model Joan Smalls on the cover of V magazine's first 2017 issue, so we'll give you a little time before moving on. You back? OK.
Wearing nothing but a barely-there dress and showing us all the results of many hours spent at the gym (yes, we are talking about her toned butt), Joan is serving us serious glam in the most structural updo and graphic cobalt blue eyeshadow in the snap taken by Peruvian photographer Mario Testino.
Though we're sure you're still looking at Joan's fierce pose and, yes, her butt, take a few to check out the tattoo design on her shoulder, created by body artist Jenai Chin and featuring the words "Heart Breaker." Hot! Pick up the issue of V on newsstands on Jan. 12.
Hilary Duff on Coparenting With Ex Mike Comrie: "I Wouldn't Choose Anyone Else"
Hilary Duff is a single woman again, and it sounds like she's loving it. After breaking up with her trainer, Jason Walsh, in December, the Younger actress is focusing on her family and career. Hilary stuns on the February cover of Cosmopolitan, and in her accompanying interview, she opens up about dating, coparenting her 4-year-old son, Luca, with ex-husband Mike Comrie, and why she's looking forward to turning 30 this year. See her best quotes below.
- On her ex-husband Mike Comrie: "Mike's amazing . . . We're so ingrained in each other's lives. I wouldn't choose anyone else to coparent with. We are really good friends and care a lot about each other."
- On finding love and dating: "I've never been a good dater. I meet, like, one person a year that I'm maybe attracted to . . . I never want to be that girl who's desperate to find a mate."
- On turning 30 this year: "I think I'm a pretty confident person. I've had a career for a long time, but I've put a lot of unnecessary pressure on myself as a woman, a businessperson, an actress. I'm like, 'Am I doing enough?' Everyone I've talked to says you come into your own in your 30s. You feel more secure. I'm looking forward to that."
New Guidelines For Introducing Babies to Peanuts Are the Exact Opposite of What You've Been Told
In the last 10 to 15 years, the prevalence of peanut allergies in children has increased like crazy, causing schools to become nut-free and parents to become more worried.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has released new guidelines for introducing peanuts to children, and the new recommendations suggest that depending on the level of risk an infant has for developing a peanut allergy, peanuts should be introduced into their diet earlier - as early as 4 months - rather than later to potentially prevent them from developing an allergy.
So, what does this mean for you? Allergist Dr. David Erstein wants to help decrease the amount of worry associated with peanut allergies by helping to lower the rate of children who develop the allergy in the first place.
According to three in-depth peanut allergy studies - LEAP, LEAP-On, and EAT - introducing peanuts to children as young as 5 months old significantly reduces the prevalence of peanut allergies. Dr. Erstein, who has developed a system for introducing peanuts to children based off the extensive scientific research from these studies, shared some tips with us to help make your child's first time eating peanuts a worry-free one.
Read through for five tips to help you begin adding peanuts to your child's diet.
A Game of Thrones Star Confirms Exactly How Many Hours Are Left
In July of last year, HBO announced that Game of Thrones would end after season eight, but we didn't know exactly how many episodes to expect. Now, well, we still don't know the exact episode count, but we do know that there are a total of 15 hours left in the series. Iain Glen, who plays Jorah Mormont, confirmed the news in an interview with Radio Times:
"They are taking the length of time it takes to shoot ten episodes to shoot just seven this year and six next year. There are fifteen more hours left in Thrones as we understand it, but that may change, but that's as far as we know . . . I think the scale and size of the set pieces, the world that is being created it's just getting more and more extraordinary and they feel they need that time to shoot seven hours as opposed to ten."
Each season of Game of Thrones has been 10 episodes long, but we knew that wouldn't be the case for seasons seven and eight. The new intel means the upcoming seasons will either be split into seven- and eight-episode seasons or a couple episodes could be supersize. Either way, let's hope the writers wrap up all those loose ends!
Mom's Kids Have 2 Different Dads - and She Has "Not a Damn Thing to Be Ashamed Of"
When Whitney Renee Huntwork tells people that her boys have two different dads, she usually doesn't get a positive response.
In fact, the mother of two took to Facebook because she wants to put an end to the "looks of horror or disgust, or snickers, or an attitude as if it's a bad thing." In an honest post along with a sweet snapshot of her boys, Whitney eloquently explained the reason her boys don't have the same dad:
My kids have different fathers because I loved two different men in two different ways at two different times. My kids have different dads because I was strong enough to walk away from a relationship that was not working. My kids have different dads because I CHOOSE to have them, to create them, to carry and birth them, and raise them into amazing human beings.
Whenever Whitney receives praise for being a great mom, she is always thankful for the two important men who made it possible. "Without those two men, one who I may want to run over with my car at times and one who I may make sleep on the couch at time, I wouldn't have these two amazing children," she wrote. "So having two fathers of my two children radiates strength, perseverance, and hope. Not a damn thing to be ashamed of."
You'll Be Blown Away by How This Teen Re-Created Classic Artwork on Her Eyelids
If you've ever scrolled through the numerous beauty-themed accounts on Instagram, you know for a fact that art inspires other art. However, self-trained makeup artist Stefania Atupe (who is just 16 years old!) draws from classic works for her own itty-bitty masterpieces.
The London-based teen told Mashable that she spent an hour and a half re-creating "Starry Night" on her lids after a fan noticed similarities between her work and Van Gogh's. "I absolutely love Van Gogh," she said. "It took really long as there's so many different colors, and I really wanted to try get all the same colors and patterns as in the original painting."
Since that first foray into post-impressionism, Atupe has replicated another one of Van Gogh's paintings as well as the ukiyo-e work, Hokusai's "The Wave." Prepare to be even more impressed: she uses drugstore products to create those precise designs. All those incredible swirls in the night sky you see above were painted on with NYX Cosmetics Liquid Liner ($7)!
Read on to be completely mesmerized by her talent.
Hands-On Training: 5 Signals to Teach Your Dog
If you adopted a new puppy recently, you probably need some pointers on getting your new furry friend to learn commands. So talk with your hands! While tiny treats are key motivators to any positive training session, there's something else you really should be doing. In addition to using the chosen words for sit, stay, and more, also select a distinctive gesture for each command. Choose a hand movement that feels natural, and stick with it once you get started. Not sure where to start? Get inspired by these standard signals that you can easily teach your dog.
Mom Gives Birth in Just 3 Minutes While Waiting For an Oil Change on Her Car
One woman just proved to be the queen of multitasking when she delivered her baby in just three minutes while waiting for an oil change on her car. Amanda Sherman was waiting with her husband, Adam, at #1 Cochran Nissan of South Hills in Pittsburgh when she excused herself to use the bathroom. She was completely unaware that she was about to meet her baby girl, Heather Lynn.
"I went to pee and then, I don't know, I was all of a sudden holding her," she told The Tribune-Review. "I hollered for help, and some woman who happened to be a registered nurse came through the doors." Adam, who was in complete shock, received instructions from a 911 operator to tie up the baby's umbilical cord and did so with his shoelace before an ambulance arrived to take Amanda and Heather to Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC.
After meeting his wife at the hospital with their 14-month-old son, Adam attempted to process the quick turn of events. "It's a crazy new year," he said. "I'm still replaying what happened. I was talking to a service rep, and someone ran into the room shouting, 'Hey, someone's wife just gave birth!' Now the baby is here."
Both Amanda and the baby are healthy and were able to head home two days after Heather's unexpected birth. As for the dealership? "All of the sudden, I saw an ambulance pull up," said the general sales manager, Brett Lewis. "That's a first, right? We haven't had anything like this before. It's definitely something you don't see or hear every day. Everyone here really took care of them, and we still managed to sell a few cars that day."
Kate Bosworth Isn't the Only 1 With Tory Burch's New It Bag - It's Everywhere
Tory Burch didn't choose two girls at random to rep her new Gemini Link bag (which, by the way, is on the shoulder of almost every blogger). Instead, she looked for stylish ladies who embody the meaning behind the design. The signature hardware on these satchels is a symbol for the number two and Tory's Gemini zodiac sign. Actress Kate Bosworth and Australian photographer Margaret Zhang, who's also a Gemini, were the perfect duo to bring the bag to life.
While Kate's well aware the iconic logo calls out life's dualities, she was also chosen as a model because she's lived on both the East and West coast, and she's got two different colored eyes, one hazel and one blue. Of course, the proof is in the pictures: Zhang captured Bosworth in the perfect light, wearing casual-chic outfits she was born to pull off.
Scroll for a few BTS shots of the LA shoot, then see the resulting images and shop the Gemini Link bag for yourself in a wide range of shades, shapes, and sizes.
We Can All Relate to Leslie Jones's Facial Expressions at the Knicks Game
Leslie Jones was all smiles on Wednesday when she attended the New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden. The Saturday Night Live star cheered on her home team with a few friends (third wheel Michael Che wasn't in attendance this time) while sporting their famous colors. The Knicks ended up losing by just one point to the Milwaukee Bucks, but Leslie made sure to offer her support in animated cheers and screams throughout the game. While not everyone gets that into sporting events all the time, her hilarious facial expressions reminded us of something we can all relate to: waiting for your food to arrive at a restaurant. Keep reading to see what we mean.
And Now, For Your Viewing Pleasure, Jimmy Fallon and Ellen DeGeneres Awkwardly Kissing
A few days ahead of hosting the Golden Globe Awards, Jimmy Fallon decided to have a nice, leisurely chat with Ellen DeGeneres on Thursday. Little did he know that the conversation would turn into a hilarious, mildly embarrassing game of "Speak Out." After putting a giant piece of plastic in his mouth to hold his lips back (an accessory we imagine will be all the rage on the red carpet this weekend), he read phrases about the Globes while Ellen tried to decipher what he was saying. It all ended with a pretty gross kiss between the two, so watch it above!
Don't Let Emma Roberts's Engagement Ring Distract You From Her Sassy T-Shirt
When your T-shirt collection needs spicing up, add in a sassy option - maybe one that says "@sshole?" We can thank Emma Roberts for this idea after we saw her rocking a black Elkin tee with the printed motif. It's subtle, but underneath her leopard-print jacket, you can definitely make out the word. Once you notice it, you might just LOL. It's basically a subtle dig to anyone who has ever annoyed you (like that person who cut you in line at the store).
Though the top is quite genius, we also took a quick glance at Emma's new engagement ring and her pink Nicholas Kirkwood mules, which added just the right amount of color to her outfit. Scroll on to see Emma's look from all angles before scooping up a cheeky shirt of your own.
Nicki Minaj Confirms Her Breakup With Meek Mill
Nicki Minaj and Meek Mill are no longer in a relationship. On Thursday, the "Side to Side" rapper shared the news on Twitter, writing, "To confirm, yes I am single. Focusing on my work & looking forward to sharing it with you guys really soon. Have a blessed New Year. Love u🎀." The pair first started dating in early 2015 and sparked engagement rumors later that year when Nicki flashed a giant ring on social media.
Watching Pharrell Williams and Ellen DeGeneres Talk About Love and Equality Should be Mandatory
Pharrell Williams is a lot of things - an artist, a father, a husband - but he's recently taken on a new role: feminist. During an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show on Thursday, the "Runnin'" singer talked about his work writing the soundtrack for the Golden Globes-nominated film, Hidden Figures, and the importance of recognizing the achievements of females. "Women can," he told the host. On the subject of equality, he also opened up about the recent homophobic remarks made by singer Kim Burrell, and why he supports Ellen's decision to cancel her appearance to sing with him on the show. "There's no space, there's no room for any kind of prejudice in 2017 and moving on," he explained. "I love her, just like I love everybody else, and we all got to get used to that . . . Live and let live. Love and let love."
Once You See Kim Kardashian's Jeans, No Denim Will Ever Compare
Fans of Kim Kardashian are aware she's been MIA recently. But right around the holiday season, the TV star made her return, sharing a family video and an adorable shot of her son Saint. On the street, it seems Kim's back to her signature look that mixes shocking separates with a little Yeezy (she completed her outfit with heels from the season four collection while out in Bel Air).
But let's take a second to zoom in on her pants: shredded boyfriend jeans that reveal plenty of skin and the interior lining of both pockets. "Torn" she captioned a photo on Snapchat, surely drawing attention to the detail of her denim, but also making us wonder if she's reflecting on the past few months.
Whether or not Kim's jeans have a deeper meaning, they're certainly a bold fashion move by anyone's standards. Read on to see how Kim paired them with an oversize Chrome Hearts hoodie, check out her brief post on social media, then shop her style if you dare.
Why This Food Blogger Is Saying "F*ck Salads!"
This post was originally featured on TheWholeTara and written by Tara Milhem, who is part of POPSUGAR Select Latina.
Evolution. We all go through it. I've restricted, and I've overeaten; I've stopped myself from ordering what I actually want, and I've spent too much time convincing people that my way was the only way. As I've been exposed to more things and have evolved as a person, so have my views on health and eating. I was led to the over-obsessed world of health through fanatical social media accounts and society's unrealistic ideals. I crashed into a wall when I found myself judging certain foods as "good" and "bad," and overeating on foods that I swore were good enough to be unlimited.
In this little world of veggies and rainbows that I created for myself, I left out so many foods that would make me feel normal again. I left out the food I'd encounter dating, going out with friends, and traveling the world. I left out a whole world, a world that I really want to be a part of. This world didn't mean having to eat an abundant amount of "healthy" food to be full, but rather a moderate amount of real food to keep me satiated. I value balance so much more than food rules. F*ck labels, f*ck what people think, and, finally, f*ck ordering salads.
The second piece of the obsessive food behaviors had to do with body image. I was convinced by the superfood-infatuated health world that cheese leads to severe bloating, gluten is the enemy, and anything fried is a sin. I was holding myself to an unrealistic standard, once again driven by the media. God forbid I ordered a creamy goat cheese, pesto baguette with fries, now some of my favorite foods. As soon as I let go and began this process, my love for my ever changing body took on a completely new form. I have the ability to promote body positivity for what a normal, nourished body looks like. Now that I have my life back, I've never felt more energized, alive, and satisfied eating anything I want to eat. That includes things that come in a big plastic bag that have no inkling of the words organic or "all-natural" on them.
As much as I basked in my lifestyle, I knew it was time to come to an end. How could I travel to Paris and not enjoy a warm pain au chocolat or sweet Nutella crepe? That would be equivalent to robbing myself of a real life. Or what about wanting to get a scoop of actual ice cream (not the frozen banana kind of ice cream)? Organic is great and so is non-GMO, local, sustainable, and all that - but it's not everything. It's a preference, and it's just that. By sticking to one way of eating or excluding certain food groups, your flexibility is gone; your relatability is diminished. Food doesn't have the power to impact your body as much as your mind convinces itself of.
So what does being a healthy, normal eater mean? It's living a life that has to do with so much more than just food. It's being mindful and intuitive with food, but not too mindful where you become obsessed with the quality and quantity of what you're eating. It is being able to choose food you like and eat it and truly get enough of it, not just stop eating because you think you should. It's allowing your body to fall into place where it's meant to be and accepting every bit of that. Whole health is allowing food and eating to take up an important part of your life, but not your whole life.
At the end of the day, food is just food. I'm open to all kinds of food now. I still want to nourish my body and enjoy high quality food, but I also want to live my life. I want to find myself in Italy enjoying a fine truffle pizza or enjoying creamy cookie dough ice cream with my nieces. I want to live my life and I don't want to be chained down by food rules and restrictions. I want to be free. That's just what I'll do and I encourage you to do the same.
xo,
Tara
This Birth Photographer Shares the Most Memorable - and Jaw-Dropping - Photos From Her 100 Deliveries
Birth is one of the most important moments of women's lives, yet many mothers find that after the fact, they only have a few concrete memories of the entire birth experience.
Monet Moutrie, of Monet Nicole, is an experienced birth photographer and has captured an astounding 100 deliveries. From unmedicated home water births to hospital C-sections and stillbirths, she has seen it all - and has taken thousands of mind-blowing photographs in the process.
"I've witnessed and captured moments of intense strength, intense doubt, and intense joy. Quite simply: there is nothing more emotionally evocative than birth," Monet told POPSUGAR. "Having professional birth photographs can help give those memories more shape and power."
During her time observing the most intense hours of a family's life, she's learned that no birth is the same - and that there's immense beauty in the differences. "The more I do birth photography, the more I realize that women need to feel empowered and supported in whatever choices they make," said Monet. "The span of human emotion is often displayed in the hours that surround the first breath of a child."
As Monet reflects on her 100 births, she's shared her all-time favorite photos - and the incredible details that make their stories just as memorable.
Probiotics May Be the Secret Weapon to Finally Clearing Up Your Skin This Year
For years, wellness experts and doctors have been touting the benefits of probiotics because they give us a healthy gut and help to keep our bodies in tiptop shape. Now, they're having a major moment in the skin care world as well. Many experts agree that taking probiotics orally or applying them topically can be beneficial when it comes to providing our skin with harmony and balance from the inside out.
Whether you just want a healthy glow or you suffer from eczema, acne, hives, rashes, rosacea, or psoriasis, here's the 411 on probiotics and the many benefits they can have when it comes to looking and feeling your best.
How to Wear Your Skinny Jeans - and Still Be a Trendsetter - in 2017
While some predicted 2016 would mean the death of skinny jeans, if you look around, you'll see that's just not the case. Sure, we love the fact that the past few seasons have brought new styles. The flare silhouette is back and booming, mom jeans have become mainstream, and the roomier boyfriend styles aren't going anywhere, but neither is the skinny.
Despite the influx of trends, the simple cut has become a mainstay in our closets, and if you're still wearing yours religiously, there's no reason to stop. The silhouette is easy to take day to night, it's seasonless, and it goes with everything already in our wardrobes. The one hiccup? The outfits can feel repetitive. Have you been wearing the same blouse, ballet flats, and jeans since 2009? If that's the case, don't stash your favorite jeans, just mix it up. With 14 inspired outfit combos here, we're giving you the quick fixes you need to reinvent the skinny jeans you love with a fresh perspective. Read on for a few ideas to steal now and bring your look into the New Year.
Which Is Worse: Dessert or Alcohol? (We Asked the Expert)
Would you rather have a chocolate truffle or glass of wine? How about a warm cookie out of the oven, or a zesty margarita?
Let's talk about sugar and alcohol: two things that have been somewhat demonized in the wellness world yet are still big parts of many of our favorite indulgences. A good glass of wine or a delicious piece of cake is a part of a balanced, well-rounded diet; they can contribute to your overall sanity when you're eating clean! But sugar and alcohol themselves - generally speaking - are not really healthy substances you want in your diet. So is there a lesser of two evils?
We noticed that there's a bit of controversy over which is worse. Sugar can be like a drug and create an addiction that can lead to major health problems. The same can be said for alcohol - it's a toxin and is difficult for the liver to metabolize. Both can significantly contribute to weight gain.
While some trainers suggest eradicating alcohol from the diet entirely, we've also noticed many diet plans allow an occasional glass of wine during the week while forbidding dessert. Is one worse than the other?
Why No Desserts?
Among many reasons, sweets can be more addictive than alcohol. RD and MPH Lisa Eberly explained it to us.
- Fewer calories, less sugar. "First, a glass of wine, though it has calories and sugar, has less calories and sugar on average than a standard dessert." She also mentioned that "alcohol has less fat than dessert, and this is a lingering trend from when low-fat diets were 'in.'"
- Portion control. "Most people can easily have one glass of wine, whereas one brownie leads to two . . . and three . . . and oh God, where'd all the brownies go?" Makes sense to us.
- Social stigma. "It's easier to avoid sweets than alcohol," Lisa said. "For instance, at a party or dinner, if you're skipping alcohol, people would either notice, or you'd think people are noticing." If you've ever felt the awkward social pressure from not drinking, you can relate to this. "Within minutes, Aunt Sue or your bestie might be questioning if you were pregnant!" she said. "However, skipping dessert is less noticeable and more 'mainstream,' as most would understand avoiding unhealthy food choices."
How Does Your Body Process Alcohol and Sugar?
Lisa noted that there are entire textbooks devoted to this topic, but gave us a somewhat brief rundown.
"The liver has a strict 'to-do list' - first, process out any chemicals or toxins in the body (everything from hard drugs to Splenda and artificial ingredients), then, process alcohol, and last, fat. So, if you have toxins or alcohol in your system, your liver will take care of those before getting to fat." This is a key reason why alcohol can contribute to weight gain, especially if it's not moderated.
But as noted, artificial ingredients have that same effect - they're a toxin! "A highly processed and refined dessert, with a long list of ingredients you don't understand, would have a similar effect on the liver's ability to process fat than a single glass of wine." What kind of dessert are you opting for? As Lisa explained, not all desserts are created equal.
"A more natural or homemade [dessert] option with whole ingredients would not have that effect," she said. That kind of dessert "is a much healthier option" than both alcohol and a processed dessert.
So . . . Which Should You Choose?
There's not a definitive answer. "It really depends," she said. "Is the dessert a homemade, natural one? Does the alcohol have a high-sugar mixer? There are so many variables."
"A natural, homemade dessert in a reasonable portion size is better than alcohol. A simple glass of wine is better than a highly processed or large portion of dessert. It is all about making the most whole, real food and drink choices," she said.
Some guidelines she suggests all come down to more conscious choices. "Think to yourself: does this have ingredients that I can't read? is this going to make my body feel good afterward? Is this a good portion?"
She said to remember the golden rule: everything in moderation. "For those who drink alcohol, recommending a glass of wine every few days isn't the same as drinking three whiskey gingers every day. If you're having a reasonable portion of a natural-ingredient dessert, that's great in moderation. If you're having a Sno Ball at a gas station, it isn't as great. Just because you're not drinking at a New Year's party doesn't mean you can then have six chocolate-covered Oreos with no effects."
Feel free to modify whatever plan you're following. If you don't drink, and you're on a nutrition plan that allows alcohol but not sweets, consider what you can swap. The registered dietitian behind the Tone It Up plan, Lori Zanini, encourages clients to not have desserts too often, but says a "healthy indulgence" like "an ounce of dark chocolate (that is more than 70 percent cocoa) or half a cup of chia pudding" is totally suitable.
Do you prefer wine to sweets? Are you on a program that forbids booze? Talk with your trainer, nutritionist, or coach about what you can add into your diet and exercise plan to stay in line with your healthy goals yet still stay sane.
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